Climbing versus trailing
Climbing plants use stems, tendrils or aerial roots to move upwards along a support. Trailing plants grow downwards and spill from pots or shelves. Many popular houseplants can do either, depending on how you display them. If you would like to let stems hang instead, see our guide to indoor plants that grow downwards.
Indoors, climbers are useful for filling vertical space, framing a window or softening a bare wall without needing more floor area.
Easy climbers for beginners
- Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): Often called one of the easiest houseplants. It usually tolerates a range of light and can climb a pole or hang freely.
- Heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum): A fast-growing vine with heart-shaped leaves. It tends to do best in moderate to bright indirect light. See our philodendron care guide for the routine.
- Mini monstera (Rhaphidophora tetrasperma): Not a true monstera, but it has split leaves and climbs readily on a stake or trellis.
- English ivy (Hedera helix): A classic climber that suits trellises and wall frames. It generally prefers cooler rooms and can attract spider mites if the air is very dry.
- Arrowhead plant (Syngonium podophyllum): Arrow-shaped leaves that often change shape as the plant matures and climbs.
More climbers to consider
- Hoya (wax plant): Thick, waxy leaves and, with good light and patience, clusters of star-shaped flowers. Hoyas grow slowly and often prefer small hoops or trellises. Read is Hoya an indoor plant and the Hoya Princess care guide for more.
- Satin pothos (Scindapsus pictus): Silvery-splashed leaves; often sold as a pothos lookalike.
- Monstera deliciosa: A larger climber that needs space and a sturdy pole. See is a monstera plant air purifying for basic care and pet safety.
- Philodendron ‘Ginny’ and other vining philodendrons: Variegated options for those who want more colour. A pink-variegated example is covered in Is Pink Princess philodendron a climbing plant?
Choosing a support
- Moss or coir pole: Suits plants with aerial roots, such as pothos, philodendron and monstera. The roots can attach to the pole, and many growers find leaves can become larger as plants climb, though results vary.
- Trellis or stakes: Good for slender, twining stems such as hoya or mini monstera.
- Hoops and wire frames: Useful for compact shapes around the pot.
- Adhesive hooks or clips: Handy for guiding lightweight vines around a window or along a wall. Choose products designed for the weight and surface, and check they will not damage paint.
How to train a climber
- Place the support in the pot when you repot, or insert it carefully to avoid root damage.
- Gently tie stems to the support using soft plant ties or clips. Avoid tight knots that cut into growth.
- Redirect new growth every week or two as it extends.
- Prune the tips to encourage a fuller plant if it becomes sparse.
Cuttings from pruned stems can often be rooted in water or soil and added back to the pot to create a bushier look.
Light and care basics
Most indoor climbers grow best in bright, indirect light, though pothos and philodendron can tolerate less (see easy low-light houseplants). Water when the top of the soil has dried to a depth appropriate for the plant, and use a pot with drainage holes. If stems stretch with large gaps between leaves, the plant may need more light. Always check the individual plant’s needs.
Pet and child safety
Many popular climbing plants, including pothos, philodendron, monstera, English ivy and arrowhead plant, are generally listed as toxic to cats, dogs and people if chewed or swallowed, and sap can irritate skin or mouths. Hoyas are commonly listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs, but that does not mean they are risk free. If you have pets or small children, check each plant against a reliable source such as the ASPCA database, place vines out of reach, and call a vet or poison helpline if you think a plant has been eaten.
FAQ
What is the easiest climbing plant to grow indoors?
Pothos is widely considered one of the easiest, followed by heartleaf philodendron.
What are good low-maintenance indoor vines?
Pothos, heartleaf philodendron and spider-like trailers such as tradescantia are common picks. Match the plant to your light.
Do I need a moss pole?
Not always. Many vines do fine on a trellis, clips or just hanging. A moss pole is mainly helpful for plants with aerial roots.